by the numbers
At $147, the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work) is the 12th-cheapest of the 64 skilled-work visas Transita tracks, below the $545 median. Its 0.5-month average processing time ranks it 1st-fastest, quicker than 100% of the others.
What is the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work)?
The Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work) is Thailand's skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence, typically achievable within 3 years. The standard route to employment with a Thai company. A single-entry visa permits a stay of up to 90 days and can be extended at the Immigration Bureau for one year from the date of first entry. A work permit is granted separately, and repeated one-year extensions are the only route Thailand recognises toward permanent residence.
Processing takes 0–1 months. The government fee is ≈ US$147, and the visa is valid for 1 year. Employer sponsorship is required. You must have a qualifying job offer before applying.
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What are the requirements for the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work)?
A qualifying job offer from a Thailand employer.
| Job offer required | Yes |
|---|---|
| Language test | Not required |
official sources: Non-B · mfa.go.th
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Can lead to PR in approximately 3 years.
Validity period
1 year (tied to employer)
Employer sponsorship required
You need a qualifying employer to sponsor your application.
How do you apply for the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work)?
- 01
Secure a qualifying job offer
Find an employer in Thailand willing to sponsor your Non-B application. The role must meet occupation and salary requirements.
- 02
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials, employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 03
Submit your Non-B application
File online through the official Thailand immigration portal and pay the government fee of ≈ US$147. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 04
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 05
Receive decision (0–1 months)
Standard processing takes 0–1 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
How much does the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work) cost?
The government application fee for the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work) is ≈ US$147. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work) take to process?
Processing time for the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work) is typically 0–1 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official Thailand immigration website for current processing times before applying.
Does the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work) lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work) is one of the pathways to permanent residence in Thailand. Eligible holders can generally apply for PR after approximately 3 years of qualifying residence. Conditions apply, so consult a licensed immigration adviser for your specific situation.
Do I need a job offer for the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work)?
Yes. A confirmed job offer from a qualifying Thailand employer is required before you can apply for the Non-Immigrant Visa "B" (Business and Work). The employer typically needs to demonstrate they could not find a suitable local candidate and must meet specific sponsorship obligations.